The Dangerous Health Lie Men Tell Themselves

“We as human beings try to protect ourselves,” says diabetes educator Virginia Peragallo-Dittko, R.N., who was involved in the research. “We say, ‘I don’t have it that bad. I’m not that overweight.’ “

But in this case, denial can hurt you. Especially since those who don’t admit they have a problem aren’t inclined to take the steps to fix it, Peragallo-Dittko says. That explains why 40 percent of at-risk people don’t eat healthier foods, and 65 percent don’t exercise regularly.

So, what can you do? Go to the doctor, find out your health numbers, including your blood pressure and your cholesterol level, and ask what you need to do to stay healthy.